E32 Let's Active and Early R.E.M. Producer - Mitch Easter Interview

Mitch Easter, the legendary musician and producer behind the defining sounds of Let's Active and R.E.M., joins us for an unforgettable episode of "Music in My Shoes." Mitch shares the intriguing story of how he crafted his signature guitar sound, influenced by English pop bands like The Move, to stand out in the early '80s rock scene. We unravel the evolution of "jangle" and discuss how it's been perceived over the years, along with insights into Mitch's musical upbringing under the influence of his parents and constant radio tunes.

Venturing into his personal musical journeys, he recounts the transformative moments that shaped his career, from the first thrill of hearing the Beatles to forming his own band. Relive the excitement of the early music scene, the serendipitous milestones, and the exhilaration of experimentation that marked the beginnings of a lifelong musical adventure. Mitch talks about the pre-Let's Active band, Sneakers with Chris Stamey and their 2024 shows. We also dive into the process of securing a record deal, the memorable making of music videos, and creative transition to solo artistry with "Dynamico" in 2007.

In the studio, Mitch shares his philosophy on balancing helpfulness and assertiveness in music production, offering a behind-the-scenes look at his collaborations with bands like Velvet Crush and Pavement. We reflect on the magic of producing R.E.M.'s early works, starting with their first single, "Radio Free Europe", and the special camaraderie among musicians. Our conversation wraps up with a nostalgic nod to the college radio movement of the '80s and the undying charm of R.E.M.'s music, making this episode a must-listen for both long-time fans and new listeners. Join us for a treasure trove of musical memories and industry insights.

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